Best Chinese Dating Apps 2025 | Meet Singles & Make Friends in China
Updated 2025Learn Chinese Faster: Date a Local in Shanghai!
Having a Chinese partner can be an exciting and effective way to learn Mandarin naturally. The desire to communicate with someone special increases motivation, helping you improve your Chinese speaking skills faster. If you’re living in Shanghai, dating a local can be a great way to immerse yourself in Chinese culture while practicing daily conversations.
Why Dating Helps You Learn Chinese Faster?
- Daily Chinese language practice with a native speaker.
- Real-life Mandarin conversations improve fluency.
- Cultural exchange deepens your understanding of Chinese traditions.
With the rise of Chinese dating apps in 2025, finding a local partner has never been easier. Popular Chinese dating platforms allow you to meet new people, make friends, or find romance—all while enhancing your Mandarin language skills.
Best Chinese Dating Apps for Foreigners:
In a fast-paced society where work often takes precedence, meeting new people can be challenging. Fortunately, Chinese dating apps for foreigners simplify the process, helping busy individuals connect, chat, and build relationships online.
See our ➡️ See our Top 3 Chinese Dating Apps for 2025!
1. Tantan 探探 (tàntàn)
“The King of Chinese Dating Apps”
#1 MOST POPULAR CHINESE DATING APP
Tantan is the most popular dating app in China, often compared to Tinder due to its swipe-based matching system. With a huge user base of young and urban singles, Tantan makes it easy to connect with people in China.
How Tantan Works?
- Users create a profile manually by adding interests and descriptions.
- You swipe right to like and left to pass on profiles.
- If both users swipe right, it’s a match, and you can start chatting.
Why Use Tantan?
If you’re a foreigner living in China or just interested in meeting Chinese singles, Tantan is a great platform to start your journey. While it’s fun and easy to use, turning matches into real-life connections depends on you and your match.
Pros & Cons of Using Tantan
Larger User Base
More chances to meet someone.
Easy to Use
Tinder-style interface.
Fewer real-life meetings
compared to matches.
Some inactive or fake profiles
to watch out for.
ADVANTAGES
A Big Pool
A bigger pool means there are more fishes to catch. You will have more chances to meet “the one”.
Easy to Use
As easy as Tinder, you can simply swipe left or right.
2. Momo 陌陌 (Mòmò) – More Than Just a Dating App)
#2 MOST POPULAR CHINESE DATING APP
Momo was the first-ever dating app in China to cover the entire country, making it one of the biggest and most well-known platforms for meeting new people. While it originally had a reputation as a hookup app, Momo has now transformed into a social networking platform that connects users through shared interests.
How Momo Works?
- Find people nearby using location-based search.
- Join interest-based groups to connect over hobbies.
- Play mini-games and interact with users in a fun way.
Why Use Momo?
If you want to meet Chinese singles or connect with people through shared interests, Momo offers a versatile platform beyond just dating. With an increasing number of foreign users, it’s also a great option for expats in China or those looking to expand their social network globally.
Pros & Cons of Using Momo
Top Dating App in China
One of the largest dating & social apps in China.
Global Availability
The app is available in multiple countries
Feature Overload
Too many features can feel overwhelming
Reputation
Still carries some reputation as a casual dating app
ADVANTAGES
International
Many foreigners use this app in and out of China, which means you can meet a variety of people.
Interest-Based
It’s not just a booty-call app any more. You can use it to find someone who has the same interests as you.
Let’s Have Dinner 请吃饭 (Qǐng Chīfàn) – A Unique Chinese Dating App
#3 MOST POPULAR CHINESE DATING APP
Let’s Have Dinner is a unique dating app in China that revolves around dining experiences. Unlike traditional swipe-based apps, this platform allows users to connect over shared meals, making it one of the best ways to meet Chinese singles in a relaxed, social setting.
How Let’s Have Dinner Works?
- Men propose a dinner date and wait for women to sign up.
- Women can now also offer dinner invitations, increasing engagement.
- Users select a match based on the proposed dinner plan.
- The date happens at a restaurant, creating a natural way to connect.
Pros & Cons of Using Let’s Have Dinner
Unique concept
The app is a perfect option for food lovers
Great for foreigners
It’s a perfect option for foreigners looking to date in China through social experiences
Availability
Limited to certain cities in China
Mutual Match Required
Success depends on both users agreeing to meet
ADVANTAGES
A Proper Date
Just like the old days, a date that starts with a dinner to get to know your potential partner.
Equality
Women can offer to take men out to dinner too. It works both ways
4. Other Popular Chinese Dating Applications in 2025
OTHER POPULAR CHINESE DATING APPS
The top applications like Tantan, Momo and Let’s Have Dinner, but there are other Chinese dating platforms with more different options:
Heartbeat 心动 (xīndòng) – Exclusive Dating for College Students
Heartbeat (Xīndòng) is a unique dating application in China designed specifically for college students. To ensure a high-quality user base all members must submit institutional to verify their enrollment.
Key Features of Heartbeat:
- Verification process only registered college students can join;
- Limited daily matches users receive just two matches per day
- Focus on meaningful connections than dating
✅ Best for: Young educated singles looking for serious relationships.
❌ Not ideal for: Those seeking fast paced online dating experiences.
Palpitation (Xīntiào) similarly to Tantan, but with a cleaner interface and fewer features. Unlike Tinder style apps, Xīntiào provides a unique user experience instead of copying existing designs.
How Stands Out:
- Users manually set up profiles and list their interests;
- Lacks age or distance filters offering a more organic matching process;
- Has fewer users than Tantan which means less competition but also fewer matches.
✅ Best for: Users who want a minimalist dating app experience.
❌ Not ideal for: Those who prefer advanced search filters or a large dating pool.
Each app caters to different preferences, whether you want a serious relationship casual dating or social networking in China.
Cultural Differences to Be Aware of When Dating a Chinese Person (Regardless of Which App You Use)
People around the world are using Chinese dating apps and social media platforms to meet new people, make new friends and even find long-term relationships . Whether you’re using Tantan, Momo, WeChat or other popular dating applications in China, understanding Chinese dating culture can help improve your experience. If you have an upcoming date with a Chinese person here are some important cultural differences in dating in China that could help your date go smoothly.
Even the Young Chinese Respect Tradition and Appreciate Manners
In Chinese culture, manners and respect play a crucial role in both business and personal relationships especially at the beginning. This is true in Chinese dating culture where is expected during meetings.
The closer two Chinese people become, the more gradually informal their relationship turns. This applies to business friendships and dating in China. When dating a Chinese person, always act with good manners, show politeness and demonstrate respect for Chinese traditions when interacting with them and others.
Family is Important in Chinese Dating Culture
On the first date with a Chinese person, expect to be asked many questions about your family background. In Chinese dating culture discussing family is common and you should also ask your date about their family traditions and values.
The family unit is a core part of Chinese culture. With many families living close to one another, sometimes even in the same home or building, with extended family members. Taking a genuine interest in your date’s family life shows respect for Chinese traditions.
Remembering names, occupations and congratulating them on their family’s achievements will leave a positive impression. Understanding and speaking Mandarin Chinese will make these conversations more meaningful and heartfelt, helping you connect on a deeper cultural level while improving your Chinese language skills.
The Chinese Approach to Dating Apps is Still Evolving
Dating apps in China are still developing and have only recently gained popularity Chinese dating apps faced user bases are now rapidly growing.
Many Chinese singles also use Western dating apps like Tinder and Bumble, especially those who have moved abroad or are traveling internationally.
However on Chinese dating platforms like Tantan and Momo it is common for users to Photoshop images or resize profile pictures to enhance their appearance. Keep this in mind when browsing dating profiles in China.
In Chinese Relationships Everyone Should ‘Save Face’
In Chinese culture both shame and reputation play significant roles in social commodities , and maintaining is key to a successful romantic relationship.
If you are in a relationship with a Chinese person, compromise should be made in a way that preserves dignity and does not damage anyone’s pride or reputation. Giving in too easily may make you appear weak, while being overly demanding could hurt your partner’s self-esteem leading them to avoid future interactions a balance for long term success in Chinese dating culture.
Chinese Culture is Built on Stories – Your Relationship Will Be Too
In Chinese dating culture storytelling plays a role in romantic relationships. It is common for couples to bring matching or complementary items on their first date, such as a flower, fruit or a specific clothing accessory like a hat or scarf.
This tradition helps create a shared love story which families will later share with friends and neighbors as the relationship progresses. If you’re asked to bring something to a date, it’s important to follow through otherwise your date may lose interest early on.
Dating in China can sometimes feel stressful or anxiety inducing especially if you’re unfamiliar with Chinese customs. However, learning Mandarin Chinese can help you navigate dating conversations with confidence. After all knowledge is power and intelligence is attractive.
Modern Dating in China
Chinese dating culture has significantly from traditional matchmaking practices to modern online dating apps. While China’s dating traditions date back thousands of years many customs still influence relationships in China today.
With the rapid development of technology and dating apps in China singles now have more options than ever before. Many Chinese singles use local dating apps like Tantan and Momo, while others connect with international partners through global dating platforms. This shift has made cross-cultural dating more accessible, allowing people from different countries to meet online and form relationships.
Dating Apps in China
Dating applications in China have played a major role in modernizing the dating scene offering new ways for Chinese singles and expats to connect.
However, your usual go to dating apps like Tinder or Bumble may not be as effective in China’s online dating culture. If you’re looking to meet single people in China, best options include Chinese dating applications like Tantan Momo and Qing Chifan.
Online dating in China offers exciting opportunities, it’s crucial to stay safe and be aware of scammers. Protecting your personal information and recognizing fake profiles should be your top priority when using Chinese dating platforms.
Essential Chinese Dating Phrases
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably interested in dating someone in China. But how can you start a conversation if you don’t know any Chinese phrases for dating? Don’t worry got you covered!
Speaking Chinese is essential when forming relationships in China, but if your Mandarin skills are limited starting a conversation especially with a potential date can be challenging. Learning a few basic Chinese dating phrases will help you feel more confident and make a great first impression.
Here are some must know Chinese phrases to get you started:
- Do you believe in love at first sight? Or should I walk past you again?
- 你相信一见钟情吗? 或者我该再次从你身边走过?
- Nǐ xiāngxìn yījiànzhōngqíng ma? Huòzhě wǒ gāi zàicì cóng nǐ shēnbiān zǒuguò?
Nothing beats a good pick up line. Not only that it’s funny, it also makes a good first impression (well for some, at least).
Pick up lines might be on the cheesy side, but they’re a good conversation starter:
- I like you a lot.
- 我很喜欢你
- Wǒ hěn xǐhuān nǐ.
No point in waiting any longer. Use one of the most basic yet powerful phrases to land a date. It’s direct and straight to the point. Which might even leave some people speechless.
- Would you like to go out with me?
- 你愿意和我约会吗？
- Nǐ yuànyì hé wǒ yuēhuì ma?
Again, this would be a handy phrase when you ask someone for a date. Chinese nationals are known to be blunt people. So if you like them, just ask them directly. They would even appreciate it.
- I had a great time tonight.
- 我今天晚上过得很开心
- Wǒ jīn tiān wǎn shang guò de hěn kāi xīn.
Being complimented on is probably one of the best things in the world. If you had fun on your date, make sure you tell them. Your date would definitely appreciate it if you enjoyed their company. Which can probably give you a higher chance of getting another date.
- I want to be with you.
- 我想跟你在一起.
- Wǒ xiǎng hē nǐ zài yìqi.
This is pretty self-explanatory. If the dates went well and the feelings are mutual. Then go for it!
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to dating in China. Whether you’re exploring ancient Chinese courtship customs or navigating modern,Chinese dating culture understanding Mandarin dating phrases can increase your chances of success.
In Short… Find Love with Chinese Dating Apps!
There you have it! These are the best Chinese dating apps used in mainland China today.
If you have a busy work schedule and limited time for meeting new people why not try one of these Chinese dating apps? Whether you’re looking for casual dating a serious relationship these apps offer convenient ways to connect with locals and explore modern Chinese dating culture.
FAQs
1. Chinese dating apps free to use?
Most Chinese dating apps like Tantan, Momo and Let’s Have Dinner offer free basic features. However, they often have premium subscriptions for advanced features like unlimited swipes seeing who liked you or boosting your profile.
2. Which Chinese dating app is best for foreigners?
Tantan and Momo are the most foreigner friendly dating apps in China. They have a large user base, and many locals are open to dating foreigners.
3. Do I need a Chinese phone number to register?
Some apps require a Chinese phone number for verification while others allow WeChat or Facebook login. If you’re in China, it’s best to use a local SIM card for seamless access.
4. How do I avoid scams on Chinese dating apps?
- Be profiles with overly edited photos.
- Avoid people who ask for money or gifts.
- If someone invites you to invest in cryptocurrency or stocks, it’s likely a scam.
- Meet in public places and verify their identity before getting too involved.
5. What are some useful Chinese phrases for dating?
- I like you a lot 我很喜欢你 (Wǒ hěn xǐhuān nǐ)
- Would you like to go out with me? 你愿意和我约会吗？ (Nǐ yuànyì hé wǒ yuēhuì ma?)
- I had a great time tonight – 我今天晚上过得很开心 (Wǒ jīntiān wǎnshàng guò de hěn kāixīn)
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